Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars
Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of a crumbly oatmeal topping. These bars are perfect for a summer treat or a cozy winter dessert.
History
The combination of oatmeal and rhubarb in a dessert bar is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. Rhubarb has long been used in baking due to its unique tart flavor, and when paired with the heartiness of oatmeal, it creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup uncooked oatmeal
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.5 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cup rhubarb
How to prepare
- Mix flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, and butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Press half of the mixture into a greased 9-inch pan.
- Add rhubarb, cut into half-inch pieces.
- Combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and vanilla; cook until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
- Pour the sauce over the rhubarb.
- Top with the remaining half of the crumb mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.
Variations
- Add a handful of chopped nuts to the oatmeal crumb mixture for added crunch.
- Mix in some strawberries or raspberries with the rhubarb for a different flavor profile.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the top of the bars before baking for a warm and cozy spice.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to cut the rhubarb into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Be sure to cook the sugar, cornstarch, water, and vanilla mixture until it thickens and becomes clear to ensure a smooth and delicious sauce.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares to ensure they hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious treat.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making perfect Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars is to ensure that the rhubarb is cooked until tender and the oatmeal crumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have rhubarb, you can substitute it with apples, peaches, or berries for a different flavor combination.
Make Ahead Tips
Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Cut the Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars into squares and serve on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars contains approximately 2 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Rhubarb is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten from the all-purpose flour. It may also contain dairy from the butter.
Summary
Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars are a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a small amount of protein. They also provide some vitamins and minerals, making them a tasty and somewhat nutritious dessert option.
Summary
Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of a crumbly oatmeal topping. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, these bars are sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a visit to my dear friend Margaret's house. Margaret was known in our small town for her delicious baked goods, and on this particular day, she had surprised me with a batch of these delectable bars.
As I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. The combination of the sweet and tangy rhubarb filling with the buttery oatmeal crust was simply irresistible. Margaret was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I have been making these bars ever since.
The first step in making Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars is preparing the rhubarb filling. I remember Margaret showing me how to chop the rhubarb into small pieces and cook it down with sugar until it became a thick, jam-like consistency. The smell of the simmering rhubarb filled my kitchen with a sweet aroma that made my mouth water.
Next, I learned how to make the oatmeal crust. Margaret taught me to mix together oats, flour, sugar, and butter until it formed a crumbly dough. Pressing the crust into the bottom of the baking dish was a satisfying task, knowing that it would soon be topped with the delicious rhubarb filling.
The final step was sprinkling a mixture of oats, flour, and sugar over the top of the rhubarb before baking the bars in the oven. The smell of the bars baking filled my house with a warm, comforting scent that reminded me of lazy summer days spent in Margaret's kitchen.
When the bars were finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in. The oatmeal crust was perfectly crisp, and the rhubarb filling had a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.
Over the years, I have made these Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and bake sales. Each time I bake them, I am transported back to that warm summer day when Margaret first shared her recipe with me.
I have since passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, who have all fallen in love with the delicious combination of flavors in these bars. It brings me joy to see them carry on the tradition of baking these bars and sharing them with their own friends and family.
As I sit here in my kitchen, preparing to bake another batch of Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and memories that this recipe has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and share my love and warmth with those around me. And these bars, with their sweet rhubarb filling and buttery oatmeal crust, are a perfect representation of the love and care that goes into every dish I make.
So, as I take these bars out of the oven and set them on the counter to cool, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the joy and memories they will bring to those who get to enjoy them. And I know that Margaret, wherever she may be, would be proud to see me carrying on her tradition of baking these delicious Oatmeal-Rhubarb Bars.
Categories
| American Recipes | Brown Sugar Recipes | Oatmeal Cookie Recipes | Rhubarb Bar Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes |